Optimistic Myth: It Could Always Be Worse

Have you ever heard someone say, “At least it isn’t raining” just to hear some thunder and feel the first drops of a thunderstorm?

I’ve often questioned why people use the “It could always be worse” idea to help them feel better. In essence we are trying to feel better at the cost of others’ misfortunes.

And the nagging question keeps coming back to me – what if it already is the worst it can be? Taking it to its natural conclusion, when you actually hit the bottom, it gives you the sense that it is now okay to be angry and pessimistic.

The point I’m trying to make is that using the “It could always be worse” technique to help you feel better and more optimistic is flawed.

There IS a better way.

Although I completely admit to having used this technique before, it’s not the “Optimistic Tool” in my “Toolbox of Life” I reach for anymore if I can help it.